Press Releases
21-06-2012 : McArthur Endorses NFUS Calls for Smooth Move to New CAP
Speaking while on a visit to the Royal Highland Show in Ingleston today, Orkney MSP Liam McArthur lent his support to NFUS calls for a smooth transition to the new CAP.
Commenting, Mr McArthur said:
“For farmers in Orkney, as elsewhere in Scotland, reform of the CAP is dominating the agenda. The uncertainty around the precise shape the reforms will take is not helpful, and this looks set to continue for many months to come.
“With a real risk that the new regime will not be in place in time for the 2015 deadline, it is important that steps are taken now to begin to map out what contingency plans could be put in place. This is something I discussed with the European Commission during my visit to Brussels last year, since when the case for such work to be carried out has only become more urgent.
“The clear message coming through in discussions I have had with local farmers in Orkney is that an orderly transition is essential. This will require Scottish Ministers to work closely with their UK counterparts. Given the importance of these reforms to our rural communities, however, this is the least our farmers and crofters should expect from their political leaders”.